EASA AD 2021-0098
Flight Controls / Stabilizers — Aileron, Elevator and Rudder Hinge Bolt Installations — Inspection / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0098 is an airworthiness directive affecting all models and serial numbers of Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-6 aeroplanes. It addresses the inspection and modification of aileron, elevator, and rudder hinge bolt installations to prevent in-flight detachment or failure of these flight control surfaces. The directive mandates inspections and modifications to ensure continued safe operation of the affected aircraft.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2011-0230 and introduces mandatory one-time and repetitive inspections of the elevator, rudder, and right-hand aileron hinge bolt installations for PC-6 aeroplanes in CONFIG 1. It also requires modification of these hinge bolt installations to CONFIG 2 standard as a terminating action for the inspections. Additionally, it prohibits the installation of affected parts after modification or from the effective date for certain groups.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a known unsafe condition where elevator or rudder components were lost or partially detached during flight, which could lead to reduced aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure aircraft safety, avoid potential accidents, and maintain regulatory compliance. The modification eliminates the need for repetitive inspections, reducing long-term maintenance burden once completed.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1 PC-6 aeroplanes must inspect the elevator, rudder, and right-hand aileron hinge bolt installations within 14 days of 23 April 2021 and perform repetitive inspections every 100 flight hours thereafter until modification. The modification to CONFIG 2 standard must be completed within 11 months after 23 April 2021. Any discrepancies found during inspections must be corrected before further flight. Installation of affected parts is prohibited after modification or from the effective date for Group 2 aeroplanes.
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